Quick Links

Hockey

Hockey is classified as a “collision sport” by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It is a popular sport, but injuries are common and can be quite severe.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, most hockey injuries are a result of body checking. Sprains, bruises, fractures, facial cuts and head injuries – including concussions – are the most common types of ice hockey-related injuries.

The severity and number of ice hockey-related injuries are reduced through the use of safety gear and special playing rules for children.

Safety Tips

Make sure your child wears safety gear at all times when playing or practicing. Equipment should fit properly and allow freedom of movement.

Check safety gear and equipment regularly for wear and tear, and to ensure it is in good condition.

Purchase a foam-lined helmet specially designed for hockey. Never buy a used helmet.

Replace a helmet if it has sustained significant blows.

The helmet should fit snugly. Check the chinstrap snaps frequently.

A full face mask can protect your child’s face and eyes. Plastic visors should be checked for scratches or cracks. Wire face protectors should be solid, with no broken wires.

Insist your child use a mouth guard. They can be specially molded for your child.

Shoulder, chest, elbow, leg, knee and shin pads, as well as padded gloves, should be worn. Groin protection is advised.

For ice hockey, skates should fit your child to provide ankle protection. Ice skates that are too large – or too small – can be dangerous.

Remember the “chin rule” when buying a hockey stick. With ice skates on and the stick resting on the end of its blade, the butt of the stick should come to three inches below your child’s chin.

Goalies need special protective gear to stop high-speed slap shots. Make sure the gear your child wears is correct for their position on the team.

Playing the game

Teach your child good sportsmanship. It has been shown to reduce injury and penalty rates.

Remind your child to warm up before playing.

Before the start of a game or practice session, check the field/ice, goal net and arena for damage or hazards.

Make sure your child learns and practices how to fall properly.

Teach your child: “Heads up! Don’t Duck!” Players who duck their heads in collisions are more likely to sustain spinal cord injuries. Players should learn to protect themselves by making board contact with anything other than their heads.

A “Heads Up Hockey” brochure featuring tips to avoid spinal cord injuries is available from USA Hockey. Call 800 495-USAH.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends body checking should not be allowed for children age 15 or younger.

Never encourage your child to play through pain. Seek medical evaluation for any injuries.

Encourage your child to take plenty of rest breaks and to stop when they get tired.